Policies

Purpose – To ensure decisions are made in the best interests of the CIC and not influenced by personal gain. A conflict of interest occurs where a person’s personal, financial, or professional interests could influence their role. All Directors and key representatives must: ● Declare any actual or potential conflicts as soon as they arise ● Record conflicts in a register of interests ● Withdraw from discussions or decisions where a conflict exists The CIC will manage conflicts transparently and in line with good governance practice.

Purpose – To prevent bribery, corruption, and fraud in all CIC activities. The CIC operates a zero-tolerance approach to bribery, corruption, and fraudulent activity. No one acting on behalf of the CIC may: ● Offer or accept bribes or improper inducements ● Misuse funds, assets, or information ● Engage in dishonest or deceptive practices Any suspected incidents must be reported immediately and will be investigated.

Purpose – To prevent the CIC from being used for money laundering or criminal activity. The CIC will: ● Keep accurate financial records ● Use bank accounts in the CIC’s name ● Not accept large or suspicious cash payments ● Report concerns about suspicious activity All financial activity must be transparent and lawful.

Purpose – To protect children and vulnerable adults involved in CIC activities. The CIC is committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare. We will: ● Treat safeguarding concerns seriously ● Act promptly on concerns or disclosures ● Follow local safeguarding procedures ● Ensure appropriate checks where required ● Provide clear reporting routes Any suspicion of abuse or neglect must be reported immediately.

Purpose – To ensure volunteers are supported, valued, and treated fairly. The CIC will: ● Provide clear roles and expectations ● Offer appropriate support and supervision ● Ensure volunteers are not exploited or financially disadvantaged ● Promote safe, inclusive volunteering opportunities Volunteers are not employees and may stop volunteering at any time.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Purpose – To promote fairness, inclusion, and respect. The CIC is committed to equality and inclusion and will not tolerate discrimination based on: ● Age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership ● Pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief ● Sex or sexual orientation We aim to create welcoming, accessible spaces and actively challenge inequality.

Whistleblowing and Complaints Purpose – To enable concerns to be raised safely and transparently. The CIC encourages individuals to raise concerns about wrongdoing, malpractice, or poor conduct. ● Concerns can be raised confidentially ● Whistleblowers will not suffer retaliation ● Complaints will be handled fairly and promptly Where appropriate, concerns may be escalated to relevant authorities.

Data Protection Purpose – To protect personal data and comply with UK GDPR and Data Protection legislation. The CIC will: ● Collect only necessary personal data ● Store data securely ● Use data fairly and lawfully ● Not share data without consent or legal reason ● Allow individuals to access their data All data breaches must be reported and managed appropriately.